HC Deb 09 February 1937 vol 320 cc240-1W
Mr. T. Morris

asked the Minister of Labour whether the trading estates in any of the distressed areas are now in a position to receive offers for accommodation; and whether any such offers have been received?

Mr. E. Brown

In addition to building factories to provide accommodation for industrialists who have already signified their intention of taking leases, it is the policy of the trading estate companies to erect a limited number of standard factories in advance. Both trading estate companies are now in a position to receive inquiries for accommodation. North-Eastern Trading Estates, Limited, has plans drawn for 20 factories and construction has begun. Eighteen industrialists have signified their intention of taking leases, and, subject to the weather, the company expects by the end of April to have in addition four vacant standard factories ready for immediate occupation. One hundred and sixty-six inquiries have been received. South Wales and Monmouthshire Trading Estates, Limited, began operations several months later, but already 60 applications have been received. Contracts have been signed in two cases and others are in an advanced state of negotiation.